PLANS to turn a residential garage in a picturesque part of Newquay into a children's day care centre have received opposition.

Newquay Town Council’s planning committee has objected to an application for a change of use of a garage and rear garden from residential use to mixed residential and children's day care use at Rivers Edge in Gannel Road as it believes the local is inappropriate. Town councillors stated a key concern is the “potential” for neighbouring properties to experience varying levels of unwanted noise from the use of the outdoor space. They also have flooding concerns from the River Gannel.

The proposal seeks to establish a small-scale early years childcare setting for a maximum of 12 children aged between three and five years whilst retaining the dwelling as a private residence.

The planning statement said: “The proposal makes efficient use of an existing residential property without significant external alteration and will provide additional childcare provision within the local community.

“The proposal comprises conversion of the existing integral garage into accommodation associated with the nursery. Continued occupation of the property as a private dwelling. Mixed residential and children's day care use. “No significant alterations to the external appearance of the building are proposed other than those shown on the submitted drawings.

“The proposal has been carefully designed to protect neighbouring residential amenity through its modest scale, managed operation and limited outdoor activity.

“Outdoor learning will take place during three supervised one-hour sessions each day, with a maximum of three hours of outdoor use. Outdoor activities will occur only during normal weekday operating hours. No amplified music or external loudspeakers will be used.

“No overlooking or loss of privacy will arise as no raised structures or additional windows are proposed. Existing off-street parking will continue to be available. Drop-off and collection arrangements will be managed to minimise congestion.”

But Newquay Town Council believes the location is not suitable despite the assurances given.

The committee, as a consultee, stated: “Councillors recognise the value in adding to the supply of early years nursery and pre-school facilities across the town. However, the proposed location seems inappropriate for such an endeavour. This area of Gannel Road is known locally for its susceptibility to flooding, with projections indicating a greater frequency of flooding events over time. Councillors voiced strong concerns that, when flooded, vehicular access to the immediate area can be compromised, presenting a very real challenge to parents attempting to collect their children.

“A key concern is the potential for neighbouring properties to experience varying levels of unwanted noise resulting from the use of the outdoor space. The residential amenity of homes along Pengannel Close being the most likely to be impacted, along with the adjacent properties.

“The provision of just one toilet and wash hand basin appears inadequate.

“Councillors were uncertain of the route that would be followed when moving children from the indoor space to the outdoor space. It would seem inappropriate to go through the residential part of the property.”

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Cornwall Council is due to have the final say on the plans.